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Parkes joins the Scarlets

Welsh region the Scarlets have confirmed the signing of New Zealand back Hadleigh Parkes from ITM Cup side Auckland.

Welsh region the Scarlets have confirmed the signing of New Zealand back Hadleigh Parkes from ITM Cup side Auckland.

Hunterville-born Parkes brings a wealth of experience to complement the centre partnerships at the Scarlets, along with leadership skills that will add strength in depth at the region.

The 27-year-old joins the Scarlets from ITM Cup side Auckland; he returned to Auckland after a season with Super Rugby side Hurricanes in Wellington. The skillful centre, a cornerstone of the Auckland backline, played in every match over the past three seasons since debuting for the ITM Cup side in 2011.

A well-respected team member, Parkes captained Auckland to a Premiership semi-final against Taranaki after securing a record-breaking 60-19 result over Waikato in the quarter-final. Parkes scored 16 of his side’s 30 points, including a try, before Taranaki went on to become eventual 49-30 victors.

Parkes was a member of the Auckland Sevens team who won Nationals in 2011.

The former Palmerston North Boys’ High School pupil made 38 appearances in Auckland colours. His former clubs include Manawatu and he has represented Blues, Southern Kings and Hurricanes in Super Rugby.

Commenting on the news of Parkes’ arrival to West Wales, Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac said: “It’s great to see Hadleigh arrive in West Wales and join us here at Parc y Scarlets.

“Hadleigh will add some strength and depth to the backline having played Super Rugby in both South Africa and New Zealand as a midfield back and outside back.

“Hadleigh, at 27 years of age, will bring leadership qualities to the team having previously captained sides in New Zealand. I’ve worked with Hadleigh for two years, he’s a well rounded player who’ll bring a lot to the squad both on and off the field.”